APRIL 23, 2026

LANSING, MI – The Great Lakes PFAS Action Network (GLPAN) joined state lawmakers this week to support the introduction of a legislative package aimed at addressing toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” and protecting the health of Michiganders. Introduced by state Reps. Penelope Tsernoglou, Jenifer Conlin, Phil Skaggs, Morgan Foreman, Sharon MacDonell, Denise Mentzer, and Julie Brixie, the bills would help reduce harmful PFAS exposure, strengthen protections for impacted communities, and move closer to a healthier, more just future. 

“The toxic PFAS crisis is not an abstract issue, it's a serious threat to public health that is impacting real Michiganders, real Michigan families, and entire communities across our state,” said Sandy Wynn-Stelt, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network (GLPAN). “For too long, many Michiganders have been forced to live with contaminated water, unsafe soil, and the devastating health consequences that follow, all while polluters evade accountability. This bill package is an important step toward preventing future contamination, increasing transparency, and giving impacted residents the tools they need to protect themselves. We urge lawmakers to act with the urgency this crisis demands.” 

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment. These toxic chemicals have contaminated drinking water, soil, wildlife, and the blood of residents across Michigan and have been linked to serious health risks. The bill package would expand PFAS testing and transparency, provide relief for farmers impacted by PFAS contamination, ban toxic PFAS in household and personal care products, and ensure impacted citizens have a voice in how the state is taking action on PFAS. 

In 2025, Michigan surpassed 300 known PFAS contamination sites, with at least 11,000 potential sites remaining across the state. The same year, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services released updated Eat Safe Fish Guidelines, which tripled the number of Michigan water bodies with “Do Not Eat” advisories due to PFAS, posing a huge threat to Michigan’s fisheries, anglers, and our recreation economy.